What brands of mid-price 5 ers are quality and reliable?

We had a 2005 KZ Durango 285RLX2 for 9 years. It was a well built fifth wheel . Sure it had some issues but nothing major . I believe KZ sold out about 2 years ago so I don't know about their quality these days.

Purchased an '06 Jayco Designer new.
Never had a need for the two year warranty.

Still have it, and *If* it had a *ten* year warranty - still wouldn't have needed it.

Of course now that it has hit the ten year mark....maybe the warranty station (me) will see some activity..:@

~

My Wildcat offered the most features for the buck at the time I bought. I started the search with OpenRange as first choice then moved onto Grand Design. A few dealers warned me to never buy a Forest River product.When I actually took the time to look at and negotiate a Wildcat, nothing else even came close. 12000 tow miles and roughly 85 camping nights, I couldnt be more pleased.

From much time spent on RV forums plus my own experiences I have to say that quality control is severely lacking in the trailer industry. I found so much shoddy workmanship on my own toy hauler, which I bought new, that I'll never buy another one (Voltage). After 2 years mine is finally right. Most other brands have similar complaints. Don't buy new. Get one a few years old, like mine, that has had the bugs worked out of it. You don't want the hassles of a new one.

janegowest wrote:
Including used as well. What brands are less prone to problems and are a good value?

We like the Shasta Phoenix for the pricing and design, but am not so sure about its quality. I have read about windows leaking and showers leaking, floor being flooded, etc. so am feeling leery about the brand now.

Would love to have some better-built brands to look for.

The 2 on my short list are a Jayco Eagle HT and a KZ Durango 1500. My preference is the KZ for several reasons, mostly due to larger tanks and an intangible perception of a touch better quality. The Jayco does have some features that I wish the KZ had, but you can't have everything. Both have 2 year warranties, and that's uncommon in the industry.

Lyle

I think you will find each brand has a few lemons from the batch. I know Keystone pumps out a lot of trailers, but we are happy with our new Cougar. The fit and finish is nice for the level of coach. We had a Laredo before and didn't have any problems.

janegowest wrote:
Did you buy it new?

Yes.

I may be biased, but check out the Grand Design Reflection line. Grand Design offers superb customer support and a great quality product with a wide selection of floor plans.

Grand Design Reflection Line

Jim

Did you buy it new?

I have had my KZ Durango 315RKD for a year and it has been great. No issues.